Telangana Government has brought in a G.O. bringing a cap on the rate of COVID-19 treatment in the state. To that effect, the department of health has brought in G.O. number 40. There are maximum ceiling prices for the rates of the private laboratories for investigations and other services.
Maximum chargeable prices were also defined for the ambulances ferrying patients. However, the government has come under severe criticism for bringing the G.O. so late. “The Government is either sleeping or hand in glove with the private hospitals,” the Opposition parties allege.
“What is the use of this G.O. now? People have suffered a lot when the Second wave is at its peak. Many families even have exhausted their life savings for treatment. Some people had to pay Lakhs even to get the dead bodies of their dear ones. The G.O. was brought when the cases came down,” they allege.
Meanwhile, hearing a petition pertaining to the same issue, Telangana high court has taken note of the delay on the part of the government in issuing the GO capping COVID treatment rates. As per the order of the High Court, Govt ought to have issued it on May 22nd, but instead, it has done it on June 22nd.
